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What Rafael Benitez said about Steve Bruce in 2017, amid Newastle United links

Steve Bruce the head coach (Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images)
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Newcastle United are said to be considering appointing Sheffield Wednesday boss Steve Bruce.

Rafael Benitez the head coach

Rafael Benitez once called Steve Bruce a ‘great manager’, amid suggestions that he could take the Newcastle United job.

Benitez went head to head with Bruce back in 2017, when Newcastle were aiming to get promoted from the Championship.

At that time Bruce was in charge at Aston Villa, who were one of Newcastle’s main rivals for a top two spot.

And Benitez only had praise for Bruce, who could now be his replacement at St. James’ Park.

“I think he is a great manager with experience. He has a new challenge with a new club, but he did well last season,” Benitez said to the Northern Echo.

The Chronicle have suggested that Newcastle could look to appoint Bruce as Benitez’s successor.

Steve Bruce, manager of Aston Villa during a training session at the club's training ground at Bodymoor Heath on September 14, 2018 in Birmingham, England.

The Sheffield Wednesday boss is thought to be on Newcastle’s shortlist, as they seek a replacement for the popular Benitez.

Bruce is a Geordie, but if he does take charge then he is likely to have plenty of doubters.

The links with Bruce have not gone down well Newcastle fans, who feel that the experienced boss would be a significant downgrade on Benitez.

Newcastle currently have Neil Redfearn and Ben Dawson in temporary charge of pre-season training.

9th March 2019, Pride Park, Derby, England; EFL Championship football, Derby County versus Sheffield Wednesday; Sheffield Wednesday Manager Steve Bruce in the team dug out before the kick...